Friend or Foe pt. 4: Blackwing

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Bal Vyr took off after Grendel, shouting back to Cloudbreaker that he’d meet up with him at midnight. Apparently some kind of fight club took place at that time to which men could earn money by fighting each other. There was also mention of a bear there... Cloudbreaker and I took off for the Chalice to wait out the time.

“You know Araja, you and I are the odd man out, in the way of silvered weapons. Perhaps we should just go buy the silver from Bakabba,” Cloudbreaker mentioned.

“I suppose,” I said defeated like. My mind was still thinking about Grendel and what had happened over the past hour and half. The visit to Bakabba didn’t help either.

Upon our return, we tried to offer help in rebuilding her home after Cloudbreaker’s clumsy fall off the bridge earlier. She was quite insistent that because the ‘Devil’ brought it down, that there was no need to rebuild it. I then rummaged through the rubble to see what I could find. I created some light since the sun was down and the night was very much upon the town. I was able to find the silver among some random items that seemed fitting for a mad woman. I also found my tarot cards from earlier.

In the back of my head, I felt compelled to pocket them. I mean, they were right there! She seemed uninterested in gathering her things and so I felt perhaps if I held onto them, I might be able to find someone who could explain them to me. I felt leaving her with 10 platinum pieces would be suffice too.

Cloudbreaker, too, noticed Bakabba’s uninterest in her things that laid in the rubble of her home. Seeing I had the silver he whispered, “We should just take it.” My jaw dropped. I was surprised Cloudbreaker would even suggest such a thought. I felt guilty enough for attempting to pocket 4 cards, yet I pocketed the silver anyways.

The Goliath noticed his tarot cards were still out. He snatched them up and for a moment I thought he was going to keep them too, but instead he went over to Bakabba and asked her to explain the cards. I wasn’t sure if he was trying to keep her distracted so I could leave or if he was earnest to know. Either way, Bakabba’s rambling didn’t get him any where.

As we began to leave, I having pulled out 10 platinum pieces to give Bakabba, she held out her deck of Tarot cards and asked expectantly, "Cards, cards, cards." I tried to feign innocents, but I knew why she said it. Firstly, I thought it odd that she had her deck on her, but not the 8 cards that Cloudbreaker and I drew many hours before hand. Secondly, how’d she know I had the cards? I was certain she was too aloof to take much notice of anything.

Still, I felt ashamed, even if it was because I got caught. I handed over the cards, Cloudbreaker followed suit. Bakabba gave a warm smile and then asked for 300 gold pieces for the silver. Tilj! She really was paying attention, I thought. In fact it was right about there that I really took in the situation and I am still kicking myself about how selfish I had behaved. Bakabba lived in a hut made of driftwood that Cloudbreaker destroyed. I imagine the only way she gets by is doing her ridiculous fate readings. Yet there I was trying to steal her silver and the cards that made her deck. How had I even remotely think that was ‘okay’?

I paid the 30 platinum pieces for the silver and left quickly feeling embarrassed for my unkind behavior. I wasn’t mad at Cloudbreaker for encouraging it. No, I knew better and I acted impulsively. I feel I need to make it up to Bakabba still, but how?

“Let’s go back to the Chalice while we wait til midnight. I could use a drink,” Cloudbreaker suggested. I gave a nod. In fact, with all that happened, an odd resolve came over me.

“Yes, let us go back and have some drinks,” I announced. I was set on trying a pint. The day had started off so merrily and I didn’t want the past few hours to dampen the peace I had been at. If the drink could make me feel merry as the men were last night at the Chalice, then by all means I was ready to give it ago.

We walked in silence for about 5 minutes before Cloudbreaker broke the silence with what was on his mind.

"I hope that Bad Vyr manages to talk some sense into Grendel,” he began to vent, “I have had enough! He tried to kill me on the lake. With one hand he offered to help me onto the boat, and with the other he swung at me! I could have left him to drown you know,” how I wish you had, “Even when I gave in to my anger, I didn’t kill him!

"After saving his life he shows me no gratitude or kinship. So it is settled,” Cloudbreaker said, balling his hands into fists, “I will no longer try to see anything his way, or pander to his ridiculous ideals. I am proud of who I am Araja. I am strong and he is weak. If Grendel ever tries anything like that again I will kill him! I think we will all be the better for it too. He brings nothing to this group but selfishness, greed and conflict. That is not the way of my people, and I will stand for it no longer."

I nodded my head once more. That would be a fight I would not hold Cloudbreaker back on. He also would have me there to help him. I had pledged myself to him hours before, so it surprised me a bit with what Cloudbreaker said next.

"When that time comes, I would hope you will stand beside me, Araja. As my friend and ally."

I grabbed Cloudbreaker’s arm and jerked him around. I couldn’t help but notice how strong he was. However, I managed to stop him and get his attention, making sure he was looking me squarely in the eyes.

"A'aluke Cloudbreaker Kolothiae,” I chided, “I've already told you I will follow you. Unless something prevents me from being there to help you, you can count on my arm."

I quickly released his arm and began to walk again. Cloudbreaker fell into step with me. He kept his head bowed and for a moment I felt somewhat guilty for being so stern with him. But I wanted to make it clear that I meant what I had said.

“I did not mean to doubt you; it is just not my way to take such things for granted,” Cloudbreaker eventually said, “I will not make that mistake again. I respect your loyalty, 'Blackwing'."

"Blackwing?" I asked. It was peculiar to hear him refer to the mark of my fall.

"Araja is the name you were born with. Blackwing is the name you have earned. Do you dislike it?" Cloudbreaker asked, concern eminent in his voice.

"Um... I guess I'm curious why I’m in need of a new name." About as soon as those words left my mouth, part of my felt stupid. New life. New name. Duh.

"Names carry meaning,” Cloudbreaker began. So mine points out my fall... “The name you are born with is the name that contains the hope that your parents have for you. It is their name truly, not yours. My people have new names bestowed on them when they mature. They gain a name that captures what they have become, in the eyes of their peers.

"I have been thinking what I should call you for a bit now and I decided upon Blackwing. It is the name I feel fits you best. Araja has no meaning to me, but Blackwing speaks a thousand words and a song about who you are."

Whatever negativity I was feeling toward the new name and the mark of my fall dissipated after Cloudbreaker explained the reason for the new name. It held meaning to him. It was part of his culture and from how he spoke of the new name, there was something about it that made it seem he was inviting me into his world. When I stated earlier about belonging, it was under the idea of friendship. For whatever reason, this new name was so much more. I was his equal, or something like that. Eh, perhaps I’m over thinking it.

In essence, the new name was exactly what I needed.

"Then yes,” I said, a smile creeping on my lips, “I like the name. I suppose it's fitting, literally, but more in the sense that this is a new life for me. New life, new name. Blackwing.”

A smile broke across Cloudbreaker’s face at my acceptance of the name.

We walked into the Chalice and get situated with a plate of food and pints of ale. I hesitated ever so briefly as I gripped the mug with the amber liquid. I took a quick swig, the bitter drink splashing across my tongue , making me sputter into my drink. I set the mug back down, blinking wildly while wiping my mouth on my sleeve. Don’t know what I was expecting considering the smell it came with, but perhaps it was an acquired taste.

"Now about Grendel,” I stated once I regained my composure, “I agree completely about your thoughts toward him. You are good Cloudbreaker and Grendel... he seems to be rapidly dissolving into darkness," I stabbed a piece of potato a bit too vigorously, a loud clank seeming to punctuate my frustration with the crusader, "To think I believed he had good intentions earlier! I'm worried for your life now with him around. If he attacks you again, you can count that I will try to end him or bring the law into play. He needs to answer to his crimes against you."

I took another gulp of the ale and managed to not choke on it. "Might I also add that we try to stay together? I may not be strong like you, but together the less likely we'll be caught off guard."

"Absolutely. I do not know what Grendel plans are, but I stand a greater chance of thwarting them with you at my side." I felt a smile spread across my face.

“However,” Cloudbreaker continued, “should he force me to fight again, I will not let the law of this town judge him. Their corruption is manifest. Grendel will answer to me alone."

"You, too, felt something off about them? About the whole 'you can search but don't interfere with them and their investigation' bit?"

"Yes... it does seem secretive. They don’t even truly care about Trickfoot! We are the ones that are responsible for him-” that bit caught me off. Concerned, yes, but responsible for him? He’s an old Gnome who I’m sure was capable of taking care of himself. “The Captain's words make me wary of the whole town guard. Not to mention how suspiciously Mathison acted. For all we know, the guards are involved in Trickfoot's disappearance," Cloudbreaker whispered.

Another gulp. It was about there that I felt some warmth in my stomach. Despite the gravity of the conversation, part of me didn’t feel so forlorn. In fact I was somewhat optimistic.

"It might be pertinent that we seek out the Mayor. He was one of the names that the druidess mentioned if I remember correctly.” With the town guard becoming increasingly less trustworthy, it was tempting to just side with the wood Elves and fulfill the request of the Druidess.

“You know, I am beginning to lose faith in this town. Surely I couldn’t condemn all of the people due to the supposed corruption of their guards. Dale for instance has been downright charming, but perhaps the Druidess was right to hate what this town has done to her woods."

I let out a sigh, "I don't know Cloudbreaker. I don't like the guards and I don't like that Druidess. Perhaps upon finding the Mayor, he might oblige us with a run down of their dealings with the Elves..."

"Perhaps...,” Cloudbreaker said through a mouth full of food. He took a drink from his pint before continuing, “I must confess. I have no intention to do what the Druidess demanded of us, but I am coming to understand her point of view. And power would this Mayor have?" Cloudbreaker asked.

I pondered for a moment. I didn’t want to jump right in and explain how the structure of government was here, for it could very well be different.

"Well, it Athvala is anything like the world I came from, the Mayor is similar to what a chief is for you. The Guard Captain, if I'm correct, is basically second in command. The Mayor oversees the town, delegates power to the guards to uphold the laws and keep the city crime free, and does his best to make sure the well being of the citizens are met. They have the final say as to what is law.

“Again, that’s how I know it to be in the world I was last in and Athvala does look similar in structure," I finished. Cloudbreaker nodded as I took another drink of my ale. Seeing the stern look on his face mingled with the merriment of the folk around us, I figured it was time to change the subject, "You know, let's enjoy ourselves before you go off to fight tonight," I declared. Cloudbreaker gave a warm smile and that lightness I felt earlier that morning coursed through me once more.

The company of the other patrons was quite enjoyable. We sharing stories, trying to one up the other with the most intense or bizarre situation encounter. I held back on some of my more unbelievable tales, like when I was turned into a lizard or how I managed surviving my skull being ripped off and every part of my body mangled. Rather I talked about destroying some Giants, much to Cloudbreaker’s enjoyment, and the night Podunk was demolished, though leaving that part out. “We killed the werewolves, stopped the ritual, and everyone went back to live happily ever after!” I had retold a bit too gaily. If only that was the exact outcome. But that’s in the past and very much out of my control now. It’s pointless to dwell on the ‘what if’s’ or ‘if only I had...’

Now to go off with Cloudbreaker and watch him knock some heads together. Here’s hoping we don’t get caught for ‘fighting is against the law.’

Friend or Foe pt. 3: Foe

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We quickly found Grendel and Bal Vyr. The Drow was disguised as a woman when we met up. We mentioned how we hadn’t been able to find any reasonably priced silver to which Grendel and Bal Vyr pulled out their silvered weapons. The priests from St. Cuthbert apparently bestowed upon them silvered weapons to aid them in the fight against the vampires. Too bad they didn’t think to grab something for Cloudbreaker and myself, but whatever.

We were about to go off to fight some vampires while we had daylight on our side, but I reminded them that we hadn’t found Trickfoot. Grendel could care less about the Gnome, saying he’s of no benefit to us and a liability. I could agree to that since he was small, but I figured a quick search wouldn’t do us any harm and would make my conscience feel better knowing I had tried. Bal Vyr mentioned that the a Gnome he met at a brothel hadn’t heard anything about another Gnome in town.

Grendel marched off, clearly having no tolerance for discussing whether or not to search for Trickfoot. The rest of us ducked into a few other Inns and discovered that indeed he was at an Inn that was particular to Fishermen. With it being mid day, we then took our search to the docks to see if any one there had seen Trickfoot the previous night.

After going to the docks and asking around some more, one said that they saw Trickfoot leave with some men after they scared him. He wasn’t sure who the men were though he said they quite possibly could have been some guards.

“I think he knows,” Cloudbreaker stated as the fisherman went back to fixing his net.

“You could break his legs,” Bal Vyr encouraged.

“There’s no need for violence,” I stated. If Cloudbreaker even considered it, then I was certain we’d find ourselves in trouble.

“You see Araja, there you go again being all passive. Hence why I can’t rely on you in a fight,” Bal Vyr shot at me. We bickered some about how ‘violence solves everything’ and ‘it ends with people dead or yourself in trouble.’

“I could threaten to break his legs,” Cloudbreaker mused.

Oh great.

Cloudbreaker looked back and after a moment changed his mind. He then flagged down some guards and asked them if they had seen a gnome. They joked, asking if he had looked down. Once more I was reminded about my distaste for them. Cloudbreaker demanded respect and asked whom they answered to. They then told us that they responded to the Western Gate.

We made our way to the bridge the Western Gate was located at. It was the very bridge Cloudbreaker and I had visited when seeking out Bakabba.

Cloudbreaker began to chat with Lieutenant Mathison, the guard whom we met yesterday when we first entered and told us about the undead and vampire bounty. He was cordial at first, seeming interested in what we needed. However when Cloudbreaker asked him about Trickfoot, he stuttered a bit and said he knew nothing. Cloudbreaker called him out for lying to which Mathison went red.

When the Lieutenant refused to tell us where Trickfoot really was, Cloudbreaker began to threaten him. Mathison then clipped out that he couldn’t explain anything to which he headed back into the guard posts. We all pursued.

Three other guards were in the guard post to which Mathison could be seen shutting his office door behind him. Cloudbreaker started off on the same threat stating, “have you heard of the guard with the broken legs that was thrown into the lake with his armor on?” The guards gave each other confused looks before asking us to leave. Bal Vyr left while Cloudbreaker wouldn’t budge. We were then given a final warning to leave or be arrested.

I grabbed Cloudbreaker by the arm to get him moving, stating that we needed to go figure out a new strategy. Cloudbreaker, who stood his ground, looked me in the eyes with such intensity, a mixture of nervousness and butterflies swept through me. He reiterated how Mathison was lying and though I tried to argue how we’d be useless to Trickfoot if we were in jail, the final words he said to me pierced my resolve to flee.

“Araja, I look after my own.”

He was right. Trickfoot was one of us and Cloudbreaker was determined to find him- protect him. Though I still felt uncomfortable about the idea of being taken hostage for Cloudbreaker’s tactless rescue plan, I had made a decision to follow him, to protect him. So I stood my ground.

Something else to note about the three guards. Granted Cloudbreaker had threatened them, they were the ones to draw their weapons with the promise to attack. When they brought out the manacles, I willingly let them handcuff me. If anything, I was innocent and had no reason to be held. Cloudbreaker however refused to have the manacle be placed upon him. The guards then attacked him.

I was useless to fight, so I figured I’d check on Mathison and see if I could get anywhere with him. I managed to open the door while the guards swarmed Cloudbreaker. I slipped in and shut the door to hopefully get a few moments alone with the Lieutenant. I turned around and found the room empty, the lone window open.

“CLOUDBREAKER! MATHISON IS GONE!!” I shouted, hoping he’d hear me. I then went to open the door again and in the process slipped on the knob which my right hand slipped out. I chuckled to myself as I relished in my freedom.

I pulled my other hand free and opened the door right as Cloudbreaker ran out of the guard house. The three guards took no notice to me. Still, I retreated back into the office and went to the window. I caught sight of Mathison climbing ashore just as a crashing sound pulled my attention to the west bridge. The Goliath had jumped over the bridge and right onto Bakabba’s hut. He then leaped into the lake and proceeded to swim away.

With a flap of my wings, glided down to the shore closest to me and quickly ran to a dock. On my way I could hear guards calling out that there was a fugitive. I shook my head. It was too much of a fiasco really.

As I got to the end of the dock, I noticed a boat had gone out to where Cloudbreaker was. The Goliath looked like he was about to get into the boat, but suddenly ducked down back into the water. I wasn’t sure if I really had witnessed someone swinging a sword at Cloudbreaker, but I readied a spell. In fact, a new spell came to mind, to which I charged a ball of light in my hand. I held onto it, ready to let it loose if I saw the armored man try to strike Cloudbreaker again.

With Cloudbreaker trying to get into the boat and some kind of dispute taking place, the boat flipped. Both Cloudbreaker and the two men disappeared under the water. After a few moments, the dock I was on beginning to get crowded, the boat flipped back over and the man, who was steering the boat, climbed back in. He then sailed away from the spot. I wanted to shout out to him, to chastise him for sailing away when there were still two men somewhere in the water, but words failed me as I watched for Cloudbreaker. I began to count since it had already seemed too long to have not seen him. If I got to 30... well, I honestly didn’t know what I was going to do.

Thankfully Cloudbreaker surfaced after 18 seconds, struggling to hold onto to the other person.

“Grendel! Stop fighting me!” I caught Cloudbreaker shouting before Grendel pushed away and sank under the water. Cloudbreaker dived after him.

I shook my head. Why are you saving him? Let him drown, I thought. I began to count again.

As I neared 24 seconds, a great burst of darkness shot up and out of the lake where Cloudbreaker and Grendel were last seen. I looked on, wide eyed and concerned for the Goliath. I then looked at all the guards and people standing around me and along the shore.

“Someone help! There are two men out there drowning!” There were murmurs of ‘did you not see that burst of darkness?’ I looked around and was pleased to find a row boat a few feet away. I hopped in it, not caring about the fact it wasn’t mine. No one resisted me either.

As I got close to the spot I last saw Cloudbreaker, I heard my name called out by a familiar voice. I called back to the Goliath who then swam toward me. He lugged Grendel’s unconscious body into the boat before climbing in himself.

Grendel’s face was swollen and bruised. Cloudbreaker was bleeding quite a bit himself and was panting great breaths as he rested. I began to row back to shore, slowly.

“Is he dead?”

Cloudbreaker barely moved a finger to Grendel’s neck and gave a nod.

“What was that dark blast out there?” I then asked.

“Whatever it was, it wasn’t from me,” the Goliath responded.

“Can Grendel cast magic?” I asked. Cloudbreaker shrugged.

“Araja,” Cloudbreaker panted as the dock came within 20 feet, “I’ll go peaceable, but only to the Captain of the Guards.” I gave a nod of my head.

“Any other requests before we dock?”

“No manacles. I will not be placed in chains and if they respect that, I will go peaceable to the Captain of the Guards.” Cloudbreaker closed his eyes.

Once the boat was roughly 10 feet from the dock, I stopped rowing. I called out explaining to the guards we’d come peaceable as long as we were taken to the Captain of the Guards and as long as the Goliath received no manacles, adding on that he’d be carrying the unconscious man. The guards honored our request and took us immediately to the Guard Captain.

On the way, we had to walk through the substantial crowd that had generated. Whisperings were heard all around. I heard a child call out, “Look mommy! An Angelic!” The innocents of her voice was endearing but her mother thought otherwise, “No, that there is a demon.” I bit my lip as I was once more reminded of my fall and the mark I bore.

Once at the Guard Captain, we saw Bal Vyr there in the human disguise he first had when we came to Lake Town. He muttered something about bribing guards and what not which explained some of their reasonableness with our requests.

Once we got an audience with the Captain, Cloudbreaker explained what had happened, about how we were searching for our friend Trickfoot. The Captain informed us that it was under investigation, but wouldn’t tell us any details. Then he said something that didn’t settle with me, “You may keep searching for your friend, as long as it doesn’t interfere with the guards and their investigation.”

The Captain of the Guards clearly knew something.

However, before dismissing us, the only other thing he mentioned was that fighting with weapons in city was against the law. I asked him what other laws might there be that we ought to be aware of. That questioned stemmed from Sardik’s Dukedom and how resurrection was deemed as forbidden magic under Pendral’s rule. The Captain informed me I could educate myself on the laws at the town hall.

Before leaving, Cloudbreaker asked if the Guard would oblige him with a letter for Grendel explaining he no longer was fugitive of the law. The Captain smirked and said to have his clerk do it. Something about how he said it had me convinced that the letter wasn’t going to be taken seriously.

We went downstairs and gave the clerk Cloudbreaker’s request for a pardon. I noticed a sour expression pass from the clerk to Cloudbreaker. He disappeared upstairs briefly, before returning and scribbling away on a piece of paper. When he finished, he handed the paper to Cloudbreaker, telling him to go get the Captain’s stamp of approval. I was about to snatch the paper, hoping to read it on the way up, when Cloudbreaker spoke.

“Wait, you want me to take it up, or will you?”

“We can do it!” I said too eagerly. The damage was done, for the clerk looked at me and said that he’d be right back. I face palmed myself.

“What’s wrong Araja?” Cloudbreaker asked.

“I was hoping to read the letter to make sure he was accurate in describing your request before giving it to Grendel.”

“We ought to try to trust that the Guard Captain wouldn’t want Grendel fighting in his town.”

Right. Because Grendel isn’t self serving.

We soon took off with the sealed letter and went to St. Pelor to get Grendel revived. Cloudbreaker said it was a flight of stairs the Crusader had fallen down. The Priest also pointed out that Grendel and Cloudbreaker had been attacked by dark energy. Shortly both were healed, Grendel waking in a fitful rage.

“Grendel, you need to calm down and listen,” I said sternly.

“Silence demon!” he spat at me. I curled my lips back, but held my tongue. “Brother, that there is a fugitive of the law!” Grendel said pointing at Cloudbreaker.

“No Grendel,” Cloudbreaker said firmly, He then passed the letter to the Priest who stated it had the Guard Captain’s seal upon it. He then passed it to Grendel. I watched him read the letter and looked for any signs of calm, but the Crusader kept his lips pursed and his eyes hard.

When Grendel finished he placed the letter into his armor and asked for his helmet. Cloudbreaker confirmed it was at the bottom of the lake. He then asked for a sword. I was certain there was something amiss. Why would he ask for a sword when he had a perfectly usable silvered mace at his side?

“Why do you need the sword Grendel?” I asked accusingly.

“Because I want a sword,” he clipped out. I eyed him as the priest took him down stairs into their armory.

“So, do you think that’s it?” Cloudbreaker asked. I shook my head slowly.

“I’m almost certain that he’ll attack you again.,” I said gravely.

“But the letter-,” Cloudbreaker began.

“It’s Grendel!” I seethed, “You and I both know he has his own sense of Justice and for all I know he may very well ignore the guy who’s considered the ‘Law.’”

Cloudbreaker’s eyes hooded over in thought. “Then I must not let him catch me off guard..” He then unsheathed his sword.

“Put that away!” I hissed. Cloudbreaker simply placed his sword in front of him and braced his hands on the pommel. Very much non threatening, but a clear statement that he would not be taken off guard.

A few minutes later Grendel returned, a new helmet adorning his head and a sword at his side. He barely looked our way before heading out the door. Cloudbreaker recommended that Bal Vyr and I go next, perhaps talking some sense into Grendel. There was no way I would be able to talk sense into Grendel. I only had venom to spew at him. I also knew my words meant nothing to him after that terrible debate three days ago.

Grendel lead us over to the cemetery. However, night was about to be upon us in a matter of minutes. Bal Vyr also pointed out how none of us had potions, Cloudbreaker saying his healing belt needed to charge too. So the vampires were postponed another night.

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Friend or Foe pt 2: Friend

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As we walked back to the Inn, I remembered I hadn’t thanked Cloudbreaker for last night.

“Cloudbreaker, thanks again for last night. Not many people help me when I’m in distress. You’re a good friend,” I said.

“I look after my own Araja,” Cloudbreaker simply responded. I cocked my head. “I have more need of you at my side than a silver sword,” he added.

Warmth spread through me.

“By the way, still feeling alright?” Cloudbreaker asked.

“Yep. Still faring quite well.”

I then remembered I had thought about something I wanted to say to Cloudbreaker since the second day in this world, especially after watching him valiantly defend the town and validate my stand against Grendel’s cry for a massacre. However, I felt shy about saying it for I was unclear what Cloudbreaker even thought of me, but now I was certain.

“Hajarikn (hi-yar-reen), I want you to know I choose to follow you. I feel honored you'd consider me as one of your own. I respect your strength, your gentleness, and your same desires to do what’s right. Plus, this is your world and I seem to be an exile like you, so I really have no place to go."

Cloudbreaker let a chuckle escape, “Well I have no idea where I'm going, so we can blunder around together and try to find our way,” then more seriously continued, “It has been a long time since I was part of a tribe. It feels good to belong, even if, for now, it’s only with you."

We walked further on, I enjoying the peace I felt. I would always miss Raæin, Isaac, and Gemmel, but I had a new life and so far no one was out to kill me.

“So how long has it been since you've been out of your tribe?” I ventured to ask, curious about Cloudbreaker’s past.

“Over four years now...” he responded.

“How old are you?"

“21 or 22 winters, I think.”

I did the math. He was a new adult and had to fend for himself. He and I both had a rough intro into adulthood.

“What about you?” Cloudbreaker asked, implying what my age was.

“Would you really believe me if I told you?” I asked knowing the answer would seem farfetched.

“I don't see any reason why you would lie to me,” the Goliath replied. I scoffed a little before looking at Cloudbreaker appraisingly.

"I know I've given you plenty of reason to think I'm crazy or that I've exaggerate the truth, but I admire that you've been so civil with me despite whether or not you believe the things I've said.” I then looked away from him and thought real quick. “Let's see, a couple months back... or however long ago it was, I thought I was turning 292. I then regained lost memories and realize I'm well over 1400 years old. It’s hard to say if I’m aging again or not."

Cloudbreaker nearly choked when he heard that. I looked at him, his eyes wide in thought.

“"That... is a very, very long time. I’ve heard that some Elves can live that long. So I guess it's possible."

“Well, I'm not an elf,” I corrected, “I'm an Angelic. For what I know, while in the Kingdom, there was no more death. See I died a human and was Exalted an Angelic. Now I'm here and well... it's only been 7 months, that I know of. I'm unsure if any time passed between where I last was and when I found myself in that bowl.”

"What have you done with all that time?"

That depressing cloud suddenly weighed down on me. I felt my eyes hood as I thought about the past. Yes Araja, what have you done with all that time? the negative thoughts began to play. I shook my head and figured if Cloudbreaker really wanted to know, I’d paraphrase my chaotic life.

"It's a bit of a story if you're up for that,” I replied.

“Well, the Chalice is just over there, perhaps sharing it while we eat and drink would help?"

“Sure, but you’ll be the one enjoying the drinks."

“I noticed that last night. Why don’t you drink?”

I shifted uncomfortably. “Um, I just never felt the need for it. Never had it.” There was something that seem foreboding about it too. The men I’ve seen slobbering drunk, like Elmo and John, seemed to use alcohol like a crutch. Let alone it did little to make them seem respectable. Then again, like last night at the bar in the Chalice, how merry people were. Still, I did not feel the need to drink.

We walked into Larland’s Chalice Inn and once more were greeted by Dale. He got us a few drinks and a plate of chicken and beans. As we ate, I retold my life story over a couple of minutes:

"This is what I’ve done with all that time, Cloudbreaker. From what I remember, I was part of a prophecy and destined, trained up from my childhood, to defeat Erythnul,” my voice caught as I thought about mentioning how I murdered my sister, but I felt that was unnecessary for one, we were in a public place where anyone could hear, and two, I didn’t want to have to explain myself.

"But I failed. That was when I died, at the age of 19. I found myself in Heironious Kingdom, an Exalted Angelic, to continue to fight against Erythnul. Wars raged for hundreds of years. During that time I caught Heironious in a lie. He said marked beings couldn’t be Exalted only to Exalt a woman named Malfeiya, who was marked. I was cast out of the Kingdom, to which I went to the other Gods and waged war against my ex God.

“Then I was struck down by Nerull," a small shudder ran through me as the thoughts of Hell came to mind. "I was tortured for 1400 years there. I try to not think about it and part of me wishes I hadn’t had my memories restored... Then I was back in the mortal realm on some other world than this, and stuff with the mark was still happening and, well, now I'm here, still dealing with the mark.

“I guess you could say a good portion of my life time wasn't spent doing much of anything useful.”

Now that I think about it, I sold myself short. I had invented a sanitation system! Though there’s no way for me to know if that had truly revolutionized the well being of the people in Dijon.

“I... am sorry,” Cloudbreaker said with a heavy voice. Surprisingly, though there were moments that still haunted me, I didn’t feel weighed down by my past.

In a light voice I responded, “No need to be. It wasn't like you sent me there.”

Cloudbreaker gave a small smile. “I suppose you’re right. Well, we’re here now and I will help you get rid of the mark once and for all,” he announced with vigor. It was endearing, but I had little hope for it. Still I didn’t want to put down Cloudbreaker’s optimism.

“How I hope we can. That would be very fulfilling.”

“We will, Araja. That I am most certain of."

I smiled brightly not because I believed him, but because it was refreshing to see someone equally revolted by the mark. Someone who would be equally satisfied to be freed from it.

“So, what's your story Cloudbreaker? Why were you exiled?” The Goliath took a deep breath.

"In short, I was injured, badly, and my tribe had to leave me behind... I was left to die, but by the grace of the Mountain Gods I survived."

“That’s right. You mentioned that in the truth circle Lash made-” I cut myself off. Cloudbreaker and I both eyed each other before looking away at the mention of our fallen comrade. I then furrowed my brow for it didn’t make sense why Cloudbreaker’s people would just leave him, "Why would your tribe exile you like that, while you were injured?”

Cloudbreaker took a bite of his chicken, furrowed his brow in thought, and took a swig of ale before answering. "The Goliaths are a nomadic people. We do not carry what we cannot afford to. If we have to move, we must leave behind what we cannot bear. My tribe was migrating when I was injured and they could not afford to carry my broken body with them. It took me months to heal. I would have been a burden with no assurance that I would survive, but rather slow them down instead.”

I gaped at Cloudbreaker. I doubt I could ever just abandon someone if they were still alive, especially someone I knew and if there was a chance I could save them.

"It was right that they left me,” Cloudbreaker continued, “I would have done the same. I bear my tribe no ill will. One day I intend to return, when I have the strength to make a difference in the struggle."

“So why save me back in the bowl? You didn’t know me?” I asked, skeptical of his ‘I would have done the same’ comment. Cloudbreaker gave a firm look at me.

“Because I could. When I was injured, my tribe could not."

I felt a little chastised, as though Cloudbreaker thought my comment was ingratitude.

“Thanks,” I got out, “I’m definitely in your debt.” I paused for another bite of food. “So what struggle are your people facing?”

Cloudbreaker looked at me quizzically, then his expression softened. “I forget you know little of our world,” he began. In essence, the Goliaths have a vendetta toward the Giants. During the God Wars, his Gods tried to remain neutral, for they, and the Goliaths, were peaceful and not warmongering.

The Giants were told they could side with the evil  if they destroyed the Goliath pantheon. Cloudbreaker put it as, “Even in our neutrality, the Gods feared our strength.”

He went on to explain how the Goliaths were caught off guard by the Giants to which they all fled to a place called Tella-lu. There they attempted to hold competitions, for that was how Goliaths settled disputes, to decide who’d be fit to be King. Such competitions didn’t happen since they bickered over how they’d decide who’d their champions would be. To this, the Giants struck, killing and enslaving his people. With their forces weakened, their Gods too became weak. He was sure if they really were dead or just enslaved. There was 6 Gods he had: Almighty, Brave Naki-Uthai, Wise, Bountiful, Scheming, and Dread (I can only recall the one God’s name).

I imagine the reason Cloudbreaker must believe his Gods might be enslaved and not dead was at his mentioning of their silence being broken. For half a century his Gods hadn’t done anything or spoken, that was until he received the mark of Naki-Uthai upon his chest.

Cloudbreaker’s tribe was one of the few that escaped the Giants. Before being exiled, his father had mentioned to him that were were possibly 8 other tribes out there. With the mark of Naki-Uthai upon him, he knows he’ll go back once he has the strength to free the Goliaths. His plan is to unite the free Goliaths, become their Chief (through competition), and with them destroy the Giants. He also plans to get the Dwarves in on his cause to eliminate the Drow, whom Bal Vyr confirmed had Goliath slaves. Those things are what Cloudbreaker is certain to be the will of Naki-Uthai.

I was mighty impressed with his resolve to destroy the Giants and Drow. I am curious as to what he’ll do about the children of each race... but needless to say, it was quite the vendetta he held. To be honest, I also felt uneasy by the thought of eliminating entire races, but I didn’t dare question it..

"Wow... that is quite unfortunate for your people. I suppose if you're willing to help me find an end to the mark then you can count on me to help end the Giants." A quick chuckle escaped me. "Now if only we can get Grendel to fight for your cause, perhaps his sense of Justice for once would be used correctly or at least there'd be a reason for his brashness."

Cloudbreaker rolled his eyes, "Grendel fights for no cause but his own. He will not help us unless he has something to gain from it. He calls himself a Crusader, but he is in truth more of a mercenary than I have ever been. I will not put my faith in that man to fight alongside me when it counts."

I gave a nod in agreement, with a sigh escaping me. "Grendel... I remember being like him once, so set in my ways of what I knew to be right and just and out to force everyone to abide by that code. Then, everything was black and white, but now... there's so many shades of gray. I’ve learned there are so many different types of good, like there are so many different types of evil. I still believe Grendel has good intentions. I just hope his eyes will open to the broader spectrum that Justice should hold before he does something that compromises us."

I took a long drink from my mug of water.

“About that mark Araja,” Cloudbreaker began, “it definitely does not bode well for us. We must find a way to rid us of it before it’s too late. I wonder if that book that priest of Pelor had last night might contain some answers."

"Well, let’s not get our hopes up about the book. This mark is so old now, I doubt there's any tangible history that could make us understand it or how to destroy it,” I began, but a thought came to mind of, what if? “Then again, why not? It's worth a shot, especially if it gets us somewhere.”

Cloudbreaker smiled.

As we finished our meal, I asked about his blue skin and the other markings to which he pointed out his skin was gray while the markings were blue. The markings were his connection to his Gods and spelled out his Fate. I stifled a chuckle thinking about the fates we had just received from Bakabba. But in all seriousness, I still envied Cloudbreaker’s devotion to his Gods. 
Finally we headed out and decided to focus on finding the others.